News Releases

Announcement Regarding Car Thefts

WINTER HAVEN – Winter Haven Police are encouraging citizens to be extra diligent in locking their vehicles and never leaving the keys inside. Vehicle thefts overall have been on a decrease, but thefts due to unlocked vehicles with the keys inside have spiked.

Just since March 31, 2016, there have been six vehicle thefts that had the one common denominator – unlocked doors with keys inside. None of the keys were in the ignition, but thieves know exactly where to look. Some may just want to take items from inside, but if a set of keys are located, the vehicle is usually going to be taken.

“Citizens should be extremely vigilant in securing their vehicles and never leaving the keys inside,” said Chief Charlie Bird. “Thieves look for an opportunity and locking the doors and taking the keys out one of the easiest ways to prevent a vehicle theft